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QUOTE OF THE DAY
“Calling this property wild is like calling a 100-acre corn field untamed.”
— Michael Ruggiero on the public opposition to his plan to build an RV resort on a scenic blueberry barren in Northport that is popular with hikers, stargazers and photographers.
TODAY’S TOP STORIES
One of Maine’s top law firms is pressing legislators to oppose a data center ban. Preti Flaherty, which represents companies trying to build data centers in Sanford and Jay, launched a social media ad campaign late last week to sway an upcoming vote.
Mehmet Oz is escalating Medicaid fraud claims against Maine and other states. The Trump administration has signaled a willingness to halt billions of dollars in federal health payments, mirroring moves it made against Minnesota.
A New Hampshire firm wants to revive freight rail service to Bucksport and Augusta. The Bucksport branch has gone mostly unused since the Verso Paper mill closed in 2014 with little expectation that it would return.
A controversial proposal for an RV park on a blueberry barren has led the town to consider a moratorium. The 180-day pause on new commercial campgrounds and RV resorts would be subject to a townwide vote.
NEWS FROM AROUND THE STATE
- Brewer schools and conservative activist’s estate reach settlement in years-long lawsuit
- Bangor council wants plans for $75M rec center tweaked
- Juniper Ridge Landfill can expand, state says again after judge orders reconsideration
- Aroostook woman starts delivery service in area with little public transportation
- Calais would see more state aid from proposed school funding changes
- Machias pharmacy fined $5K for operating without supervision
- Machias committee recommendations aim to limit flood risk
- MDI hotel to be sold for $60M after unpaid contractors force owner into bankruptcy
- Longtime Camden market under new ownership
- Mainer pleads guilty to assaulting a Border Patrol agent last summer
- Brunswick police officer accused of assaulting a girl
- BIW union on strike after failed contract negotiations
- Skowhegan town manager dies
- A small group of athletes is already getting paid directly at UMaine
- UMaine coaches welcome move to start paying players
- After disappointing year for UMaine hockey, Albin Boija is coming back with a mission
MAINE IN PICTURES
FROM THE OPINION PAGES
“Trump’s unnecessary war with Iran has resulted in the loss of the lives of U.S. service members, caused chaos in the Middle East, and significantly raised the price of gasoline, heating oil, natural gas, fertilizer and other petroleum-based products.”
LIFE IN MAINE
This estate for sale in Scarborough comes with a tennis court, indoor pool and elevator.
A new ice cream shop is coming to Brunswick this spring.
Ice-out is starting on Maine’s lakes. Watch with wonder, and maybe make a wager.